January 10, 2014
The Honourable Lisa Raitt Minister of Transport House of Commons Ottawa, On K1A OA6
Dear Minister Raitt:
Having recently heard of Canada Post's announcement to eliminate home delivery services and privatization of postal outlets which will result in layoffs of up to 8,000 postal workers, I feel I must speak for my constituents. While this is a federal matter my constituents will be directly affected by these proposed changes and I need to have their concerns addressed. I know Alex Atamanenko, the Federal MP representing BC Southern Interior is working intensely on behalf of our constituents as well.
As the BC NDP Seniors critic for the province, I am very concerned on the negative impact these proposed changes will have on the seniors of this constituency and province wide. Home delivery is necessary for many. Not only does this affect seniors but many with disabilities rely on this service as well.
How can Canada Post do online consultations with major cities in the Province of BC and not find it worthy to collect information from smaller communities, some in remote locations and not "by way of invitation only discussions". It is hard to understand even after the consultation in which there was only 15.3 percent who were in favour of replacing door to door delivery with community mailboxes, the changes are still being considered.
I urge you as the Minister responsible for Canada Post to do whatever you can to ensure Mr. Deepak
Chopra, CEO of Canada Post does not go ahead with the proposed changes in the recent announcement.